Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined Taber Extrusions at the Farnborough Airshow to announce a significant expansion of the company’s facility in Russellville, Arkansas. This expansion, which involves the introduction of the largest direct extrusion press in North America, represents an investment of over $60 million and is expected to create 70 new jobs in the region.
Strategic Announcement at the Farnborough Airshow
The announcement was made at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow, where Governor Sanders met with aerospace and defense businesses to encourage investment in Arkansas. The expansion announcement took place at the Forum Main Stage at the USA Partnership Pavilion, highlighting the global importance of this development.
“Announcements like this don’t happen by accident,” said Governor Sanders. “It took pro-growth policies in Little Rock, a pro-business mentality in Russellville, and a proactive presence at events like the Farnborough Airshow to secure Taber’s investment. I’m grateful to this great Arkansas company for their continued commitment to the Natural State.”
Meeting Market Demands with Advanced Capabilities
Chuck Stout, President of Taber Extrusions, expressed excitement about the expansion, noting its significance in meeting the demands of the large shape extrusion market. “This investment highlights our commitment to continue to serve our national defense, aerospace, and large industrial market partners,” he said.
A Competitive Advantage for Russellville
Taber Extrusions, which has been operating in the Russellville area for five decades, considered several other states for this expansion. However, Russellville was chosen due to its convenient location, strong local workforce, and competitive state incentives. The expansion is expected to go live in 2026.
“It’s an honor to join Taber Extrusions at the Farnborough International Airshow to announce its latest expansion in Russellville, Arkansas,” said Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Taber Extrusions has operated in Arkansas since 1976, and we look forward to many more years of business success for them. Congratulations to the City of Russellville on this economic development win, which creates 70 new jobs in the River Valley region.”
Local Leaders Celebrate the Expansion
Local leaders expressed pride and optimism about the expansion. Dr. Megan Selman, President and CEO of the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the benefits for the local economy and quality of life. “This decision speaks volumes about the strength of our local economy and the high quality of life in Russellville. Our strategic location and dynamic business environment make it the ideal place for companies to grow and succeed,” she said.
Russellville Mayor Fred Teague highlighted the community’s long-standing relationship with Taber Extrusions. “Taber Extrusions has been a cornerstone of Russellville for as long as I can remember. The presence of the Taber brand in our community exemplifies how local efforts can have a global impact. Our residents create products that touch lives around the world, and I am thrilled to witness the Taber brand’s local expansion. I look forward to collaborating with everyone involved in this exciting development. I am confident that this expansion will bring new job opportunities, benefiting both Russellville and many families in our area.”
Continued Commitment to Excellence
Pope County Judge Ben Cross praised Taber Extrusions for their ongoing commitment to the community. “Taber Extrusions has been a steadfast partner, employer, and manufacturer in our community for half a century. As one of the bedrock fabricators of some of the world’s most premier aluminum products, this investment in our county will ensure good quality jobs and local growth in this sector, keeping ‘Made in America’ at the forefront of their commitment to excellence. I applaud Taber Extrusions, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, and the Russellville Regional Alliance for Economic Development, on their combined efforts to see this day come to fruition.”
The expansion of Taber Extrusions in Russellville marks a significant milestone for the company and the local community. With a substantial investment and the creation of new jobs, this development underscores the strength of Russellville’s business environment and its potential for future growth and success.
